Cartagena vs Medellín for Singles (2026)
Scroll down for rent burden, savings estimate, and FAQ.
Single-person cost breakdown
| Metric | Cartagena Bolívar | Medellín Antioquia |
|---|---|---|
| Studio rent / month | $390 | $380Better |
| 1BR rent / month | $560 | $500Better |
| Est. single-person income | — | — |
| Est. monthly take-home | — | — |
| Studio rent burden | — | — |
| Groceries index (US = 100) | — | — |
| State income tax | NoneBetter | None |
| Walk score | 55 / 100 | 72 / 100Better |
| Overall COL index (100 = US avg) | 40 | 35Better |
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Frequently asked questions
Which city is more affordable for a single person — Cartagena or Medellín?
For a single person, Medellín comes out ahead on overall affordability. Studio rents are $390 in Cartagena vs $380 in Medellín. Medellín is ~13% cheaper overall, which matters significantly on a single income.
What is the rent burden for a single person in Cartagena vs Medellín?
Studio rent or income data is not available for Cartagena.
How much can a single person save each month in Cartagena vs Medellín?
Savings estimates require income and rent data, which is not fully available for one or both cities.
Is it worth living alone in Cartagena vs getting a roommate in Medellín?
Splitting a 1BR in Medellín ($500/person) vs a solo studio in Cartagena ($390): splitting a 1BR in Medellín ($250/person) is cheaper than a solo studio in Cartagena ($390). Factor in the privacy premium and your living preferences when deciding.
Which city is better for a single person's social life?
Walkability is a proxy for urban density and access to dining, entertainment, and social spaces without a car. Medellín scores higher (72/100) — very walkable — great for spontaneous dining and social outings. For singles, a walkable neighborhood can significantly reduce the cost and friction of having an active social life.
Single-person income estimated at 60% of median household income. Take-home calculated using state income tax rate only. Savings estimate subtracts rent and estimated basic living costs. Data: Zillow, BLS, Numbeo, Tax Foundation · Q1 2026